Dental assistants are on their feet all day—moving between patients, assisting the dentist, and making sure everything in the office runs smoothly.
So having a good pair of shoes is essential. They need to be comfortable, supportive, and built to last.
If you’ve been in dental for a long time, then you’ll likely pay good money for comfortable shoes. No need to feel guilty, you’re worth it!
We’re going to share a few of the best options, and we hope you’ll let us know what you think.
Dansko Professional Clogs
You’ve probably heard of Dansko. They’re known for their clogs, and the Professional model is especially popular among nurses.
Dental assistants might choose these for their excellent arch support and slip-resistance.
Why They're a Good Pick:
- Great for supporting your arches, which helps reduce foot pain.
- Non-slip soles mean you can move quickly without worrying about slipping.
- They’re easy to clean, which is always a bonus when things get messy
- Bonus: They come in a wide selection of colors!
What Professionals Say
“I own a pair of professional and they’re amazing. I've recently started having arch problems and after wearing these shoes all day I have no pain at all. They feel a little odd at first because your foot is supposed to slip up and down in the back, but you get used to it. I think they were worth the investment.” ~Nurse
“I am a nurse and wear Danskos to work (on my feet 12+hours at a time.) They are comfortable, in spite of having a rather hard insole. When wearing them, they angle your back and pelvis in a magical way that prevents (me, at least) low back pain while standing for looooong periods of time. I've had several pair over the past 12 years or so and I wouldn't trade them.” ~Nurse
Pro Tip: Ease into wearing these to give your ankles time to get used to them. Wear them an hour or two at a time and build up to a full day.
Skechers Work Sure Track
The memory foam insoles in Skechers Sure Track shoes are made for people who spend long hours on their feet.
Why Dental Assistants Love Them:
- Memory foam insoles mold to your feet, giving you personalized comfort.
- They have a slip-resistant sole, so you stay steady on your feet even in busy environments.
- The leather is durable, meaning they’ll last through plenty of wear and tear.
What Professionals Say
“Durable. Comfortable. Supportive. Can't be beat for the price.” ~Reddit User
“I prefer my skechers. I mean Hoka, Oncloud are good but skechers are also good,” TheMama21 on Reddit.
Brooks Ghost Running Shoes
Now, you might be thinking, "Why would I wear running shoes as a dental assistant?"
But the Brooks Ghost running shoes are a favorite among many healthcare workers, including dental assistants.
Why?
Because they’re lightweight with fantastic shock absorption
What Makes Them Great:
- Cushioned soles help reduce pressure on your joints.
- They’re super lightweight, so they won’t weigh you down.
- The breathable design keeps your feet cool, which is nice when you’re constantly moving.
What Professionals Say
“I’m a Rapid Response nurse and walk a crap ton around the hospital all night and this brand has been the best for me.”
Hokas
HOKA shoes are loved by assistants for their super cushy feel and lightweight design.
They’re built to support your feet and reduce fatigue, which really helps when you’re on your feet all day in the dental office.
Why HOKAs Are Great for Dental Assistants:
- The thick soles on HOKAs absorb shock.
- Despite their robust appearance, HOKAs are light, making them comfortable for all-day wear without adding extra strain.
- With breathable materials, your feet stay cool and dry, which is essential when you’re constantly on the move in a busy dental office.
What Professionals Say
“HOKAS saved me from so much pain. The first day you wear them is like a miracle. You go home with 90% less pain. Obviously you’ll still be tired from working all day but your feet won’t be burning. I’ve walked 20k steps with them in NYC and I come home with noooo foot pain. Trust it’s worth it’s. I got the Hoka Clifton model. Enjoy your new shoes !” ~coffeeicedcoffee444 on Reddit.
Merrell Jungle Moc Pro
If you like a more casual look, Merrell’s Jungle Moc Pro is a good option. These slip-on shoes are easy to wear but still provide plenty of support.
Why They’re a Solid Choice:
- Slip-on style means no fuss when you’re in a hurry to get to work.
- They’re designed with excellent arch support to keep your feet from getting too tired.
- The water-resistant leather upper helps keep your feet dry in case of spills.
What Professionals Say
“Merrell all the way. I have these slip ons that I wear every day. Yeah they're technically clogs but not your typical giant ass hospital clog, they're small and so comfy” CatCatMagoo on Reddit.
Nike Air Zoom Pulse
Nike specifically designed the Air Zoom Pulse with healthcare professionals in mind. These shoes were tested by nurses and doctors to make sure they hold up during long shifts, so they’re perfect for dental assistants too.
Why They Work for Dental Assistants:
- The foam midsole provides support without being too soft, so you stay comfortable all day.
- They’re easy to clean, which is a big plus in any medical or dental environment.
- Built with healthcare workers in mind, so they’re made to stand up to long shifts on hard floors.
What Professionals Say
“I’m a fan of nike…super comfy and cute” ~StraightUpGab on Reddit.
Clove Healthcare Shoes
Clove is relatively new to the footwear scene, but they’ve quickly become a favorite in the healthcare world.
Clove shoes are designed with function and comfort in mind.
Why They’re Perfect for Dental Assistants:
- They’re fluid-resistant, which is super important in a healthcare setting.
- Elastic laces make them easy to slip on and off, which saves time when you're in a rush.
- The insoles are designed to fight odors, which is helpful when you're on your feet for hours.
What Professionals Say
“I wear Clove. They are super comfortable and the outside is liquid proof and the material can be cleaned with Caviwipes so my shoes are always looking brand new.” Ok-cow9599 on Reddit.
Other Shoes Worth Considering
Looking across forum posts about shoes for dental assistants and other healthcare workers, these names also come highly recommended.
- Naturalizer BZees
- Brooks walking shoes
- New Balance 812
- Keens
- Birkenstocks
- Clarks Unstructured
- Standing Comforts
Finding the right pair of shoes can make all the difference in how you feel at the end of a long day. The goal is to stay comfortable, so you can focus on your patients, not on your sore feet!
As a dental assistant, what shoes do you wear and why?
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